Zheng Mengni couldn't help but recall the previous drinking party in the city, where she had followed Zheng Yicheng to toast Tan Yan. At that time, she was surprised to see Tan Yan's wine glass lower than hers. Was it a coincidence, or was there something more?
Zheng Mengni fixed her gaze on Tan Yan's sunglasses, seemingly trying to penetrate the dark lenses to uncover the hidden depths beneath. Unbeknownst to her, Guan Su Lin was keenly observant, sensing the atmosphere that flowed between them. He discreetly studied the back of Zheng Mengni's head, his intrigued gaze seeming to see through everything.
He guided Zheng Mengni back to her seat, and at that moment, Guan Li naturally wrapped up the formalities and shifted to a more private conversation. With a hint of kindness, he asked Zheng Mengni, "What is your name?"
Zheng Mengni obediently repeated her name, and Guan Su Lin took her aged hand, carefully writing on the back of it with deliberate strokes. Guan Li nodded and continued with a few more questions. Zheng Mengni answered each one flawlessly, adhering strictly to the standard responses that would please any elder.
While others might have detected a hint of pretense in her demeanor, Zheng Mengni appeared completely at ease. A rare smile of relief crossed Guan Li's face.
"Take a day off tomorrow; let Su Lin show you around. He knows this place well and can point out interesting spots. If you find it comfortable here, feel free to stay longer," he suggested.
Zheng Mengni nodded in agreement, her obedient demeanor clearly satisfying Guan Li. He thought to himself that while his son appeared clever on the surface, he harbored the most profound feelings within.
Seeing someone accompany Guan Su Lin brought genuine comfort to Guan Li's heart. As their conversation progressed, someone interjected.
"Since these two kids get along so well, why not arrange their marriage early? It would fulfill an old man's wish after all. The doctor said you have a heart condition; perhaps seeing your son marry will bring you joy and strengthen your health."
As soon as those words were spoken, several cold glances shot across the room. Among everyone present, it seemed that only Guan Li held any hope for Guan Su Lin's marriage.
Guan Li remained silent, casting a sidelong glance at Guan Su Lin as if waiting for his son's response—there was both expectation and tacit approval in his gaze.
Guan Qingmo was the first to lose his composure. He absolutely would not allow Guan Su Lin to marry; such a person was unworthy. Dating was one thing, but marriage? That was nothing but foolish dreaming.
"Don't you know? You barely understand each other after just six months, and you're rushing into marriage. What if it ends in divorce? Who will take responsibility? I can't tell if you're genuinely concerned for your uncle or if you're just trying to harm him."
Guan Yao's face darkened, wishing he could tape Guan Qingmo's mouth shut. "You should say less; adult matters are not for you to comment on."
Under the table, Guan Qingmo kicked Guan Miao.
Guan Miao quickly mumbled, "Actually, what my brother said isn't wrong. We need to understand each other better. Times have changed; the decision about marriage should be left to the uncle."
Guan Li turned to Guan Su Lin and suddenly spoke up, "What do you think?"
Guan Su Lin smiled and replied, "Zheng Zheng and I are naturally in love and well-matched. She's still young and hasn't graduated yet; we can postpone the marriage for now."
Guan Li's expression was complex.
Guan Su Lin held Zheng Mengni's hand and continued, "But everything still depends on Zheng Zheng's feelings; it has to be her choice."
He tilted his head, gazing at her with affection, and asked softly, "Right?"
Faced with the watchful eyes around them and the firm grip of his hand, Zheng Mengni understood Guan Su Lin's hint.
What Guan Li hoped for was that his beloved son would have a stable home before he passed away. Gaining Guan Li's trust and favor was a crucial step toward securing the inheritance.
Thus, Zheng Mengni put on an expression of deep affection and insincerely picked up the conversation, "A Lin is devoted to me, and I am willing to build a happy home with him."
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